Apparatus for hunting blind with enlarged access and force generating structure

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus for constructing a blind structure, such as a hunting blind. Two or more hub structures are formed, each with a hub and at least one and preferably four rods or support arms. The two hub structures are connected together. An expandable joint, such as an extension rod or extension arm, is positioned and connected so that each hub structure forces a hub to contact a corresponding panel. It is possible to force the panel into a concave orientation, such as in an outward direction from an interior to an outside of the blind structure.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Patent Application claims priority under 35 USC Sec. 119 and/or 120from co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application having Ser. No.62/495,278, filed on 8 Sep. 2016. The entire disclosure of U.S.Provisional Patent Application 62/495,278 is incorporated in itsentirety into this specification by reference thereto.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

This invention relates to an apparatus and method for strengtheninghubs, increasing hub convexity, increasing stability, increasing adoorway size, adding a sidewall, providing asymmetry, and adjusting asize of a hub of a hunting blind, for example.

Discussion of Related Art

Ground blinds are used in hunting or nature situations to watch or toprovide shelter and concealment from the outdoors. Many different stylesof ground blinds exist. This invention relates to hub style groundblinds. A hub is typically constructed of 4 flexible rods but others maycontain 5 rods. The rods attach to a central bracket or hub with a hingemechanism. The rods swing from the hubs to a folded position and to anopen position. The hub and rods are attached to a flexible fabric coverusing hardware in a center and rod pockets at a periphery. One singlehub has 4 fiberglass rods, a central hub component and a fabriccovering. These hubs are attached to one another or to additional panelsto create an entire closed structure which is known as a ground blind.

Hub type ground blinds are typically made from 2 to 6 hubs that areattached to one another. The hubs have a pre-set amount of tension builtinto them. This tension is limited by the mechanism that allows the hubto work. This tension often gets weaker due to the fabric stretchingover a time period. There is a need for an apparatus and a method forproviding more convexity and strength in the hubs, so that when thefabric gets weak, the hubs continue to function.

Hub blinds have a symmetrical shape as they stand vertically or straightup and down in their silhouette shape and many have a predictabletriangular shape between individual panels from all sides. In theoutdoor world or natural world, this shape is detected as unnatural andanimals often detect the blinds and run off or become frightened whenthe animals see them. Hunters counteract this effect by leaving blindsin the field so animals get accustomed to the blinds which often resultsin the blinds being stolen. There is a need for a hub hunting blind thatallows for an adjustable asymmetrical shape and that more closelyrepresents trees and bushes as they appear in nature or naturally.

Conventional 2-hub blinds are made from 2 hubs that lean or est upon oneanother to form a classic A-frame structure or appearance. The hubs actas side walls and are sewn together at a top border. The triangularshaped panels in the front and the back act as a doorway and the backwall. If the front and back doorway or wall panels were not intact, the2 hubs would hinge at the top at any angle and if desired could be laidflat on the ground. Stability is created by the 2 hubs being separatedby a great enough distance so that gravity keeps them spaced apart. Thisdesired position allows for a back or rear panel to be made to preventfurther hinging and a front door panel to match the back or rear panel.This structure has no mechanism or structure to keep the 2 hubs apart,other than gravity. Stakes at the 4 corners could function to keep thehalves separated and the rear panel and front door panel taut. Accessorysupports or tubes or rods could be used to wedge the 2 hubs apart, butno mechanism exists to allow it to remain or stay square in the cornersand to avoid collapse without staking the blind. If this type of blindwas blown by wind on its side it would fold flat. Nothing keeps aconventional blind in its rectangular or square position.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A blind according to this invention can generate internal or inside outforces applied to or implemented on a single side of the blind andphysically and forcefully load internal forces against all sides and allcorners of the entire blind structure, and can also provide or create alarger blind by having an additional wall while generating internalforces that push out against an entire outer cover and can store energybeyond the capabilities of the fabric cover.

Individual hub complexes work by the flexible fabric cover pushinginward while the rods and hubs push outward, for example. They requirethat every hub maintain its internal integrity or the entire structurefails. Hubs are sewn to bordering hubs in a total enclosed boxstructure. The 4 side hubs and roof hub form a complete box. All otherapplications of hub blinds including 2, 3 and 4 hub blinds lack theability to stand on their own or roll, such as end over end, withoutcollapsing.

Designs using hubs that have additional panels including front door orrear panels do not exist where an internal force is generating them tobe taut with using an expansion rod at a single side. A contortion ofthe hubs past or beyond its relaxed implemented state represents storedenergy and provides a dynamic force that changes with conditions. Whenwind blows the forces become greater. Forces against accessory panelscause panels of non-loaded blinds to weaken the entire structure whereforces against accessory panels further compress hubs and tighten theexterior cover.

Hubs are limited by sizes because the individual rods lack the strengthfor the hubs to stay deployed when they become longer. The ability toincrease overall convexity in the hub after the hub is deployed allowsfor using larger rod sizes than conventional models or designs. Theability to increase flexion of a rod, past or beyond its hub mechanism,demonstrates the increased forces generated by a blind according to thisinvention.

This invention provides a hub style or type of ground blind using aswing arm at an opening generally referred to as a doorway of the blind.Expansion rods attached to or near the bottom open corner of the hubs atthe rod pocket act on the bottom rod and force it out against theopposing 2 attached or fixed sides. The swing arms attach to theadjacent rods in a folded position. The rods can be optionally deployedto produce an extra wall, and thus enlarge or increase a size ordimension of the blind, to tighten the external cover of the blind, toincrease the strength of the individual hubs and to have force generatedthroughout the entire structure. The force creates a transformation froma symmetrical structure to an asymmetrical shaped structure and thusadds a wall and provides or creates more useable space by maintainingmore convexity in the individual hubs while loading from a single side.

In one embodiment of this invention, a ground blind includes 2 hubs. The2-hub blind can be or has an ability to be “loaded” by the swing armsand to create a 3 to 4 sided structure that is forcefully pushed or heldinto an open position and thus the structure could roll, such as endover end, like a ball and would stay deployed or open.

In another embodiment of this invention, a 2-hub blind includes acentral zipper. The zipper from the doorway to the rear panel of theblind allows for the blind to open to a 5-panel loaded structure forconcealment. The blind allows for a rapid opening of the roof which getsor provides stored energy through opposing hub contortion. The blindalso optionally opens into a 5-sided shield where the swing arms act toprovide support for the fourth and fifth walls. Also, the ability toopen the blind up fully to form a wall in front of the hunter is yetanother configuration of the blind according to this invention.

Another embodiment of this invention has a 3-hub blind arrangement. Thethree hubs can be joined end to end to form a triangle or triangularshape. In some embodiments of this invention, the roof has no hub and istriangular shaped. The swing atm or arms are attached at, near or to theinterior corners at or near the doorway opening via mating rod pockets.When the blind stands or is deployed without using the swing aims, theblind has a straight vertical position and 3 sides which, for example,are useful for gun hunting. When the swing arms are deployed, theycontort the blind into a sloped position and the individual hubs assumean asymmetrical hyper-convex shape, such as more desired by an archerthat needs to swing or move an archery bow from side to side in a morerounded structure. This invention provides a ground blind constructed of3 individual hubs and a door panel, that create more convexity in thehub, thus more strength in the hub and longer life to the blindstructure.

Some embodiments of this invention provide a 2-hub blind with 3 to 4sides and have the entire structure loaded forcefully allowing for theentire structure to stay deployed and fabric taught without usingstakes.

Some embodiments of this invention provide a 3-hub ground blind thatassumes a vertical symmetrical position with three sides and optionallyenlarge the blind by providing or creating an additional wall andproviding a 4-sided asymmetrical shaped blind. Some embodiments of thisinvention provide a 3-hub and 4-sided blind with a front door of greaterdistance across than the opposite hub or rear hub. Some embodiments ofthis invention provide a 3-hub blind with a roof panel that allows formore convexity and asymmetry to the adjacent top panels.

These and other objectives of this invention are better understood whenthe technical features of this invention are viewed in light of thefollowing specification and the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of a prior art 4-rod hub in a semi-foldedposition;

FIG. 2 is a top inside view of a prior art 4-rod hub complex;

FIG. 3 is a side view of a prior art 4-rod hub complex in a deployedposition;

FIG. 4 is a side perspective view of a deployed prior art 4-rod hubcomplex;

FIG. 5 is a side view of a 4-rod hub complex, in a folded position, withan accessory rod attachment to an adjacent rod by way of an adjoiningrod pocket, according to one embodiment of this invention;

FIG. 6 is a top view of a relatively flat 2-hub blind with expansionrods, according to one embodiment of this invention;

FIG. 7A is a side view of a 2-hub blind without front door panels in adeployed, relaxed upright position, according to one embodiment of thisinvention;

FIG. 7B is a front view of an expansion rods attachment, in adisassembled position, according to one embodiment of this invention;

FIG. 7C is a front view of an expansion rods attachment, in an assembledposition, according to one embodiment of this invention;

FIG. 8A is a side skeleton view of a right hub complex without anaccessory expansion rod deployed, according to one embodiment of thisinvention;

FIG. 8B is a side skeleton view of an asymmetrical right hub complexwith an expansion rod deployed, according to one embodiment of thisinvention;

FIG. 9 is a front view of a 2-hub blind in a loaded position withexpansion rods deployed;

FIG. 10 is a front view of the blind as shown in FIG. 9, with a frontsnap hook released and front door panels connected to rods preventing arelease of tension, according to one embodiment of this invention;

FIG. 11 is a front view of a 2-hub blind with rested or relaxed fabricpanels and expansion rods rested or relaxed, according to one embodimentof this invention;

FIG. 12A is a front view of a 3-hub blind with expansion rods deployedand a front door panel present but without a zipper for demonstrationpurposes, according to one embodiment of this invention;

FIG. 12B shows an overall shape of a floor of a blind, according to oneembodiment of this invention;

FIG. 12C shows an overall shape of a floor of a blind where expansionrods are at a greater distance than a back wall, according to oneembodiment of this invention;

FIG. 13A shows a front view of a 3-hub blind without expansion rods,according to one embodiment of this invention;

FIG. 13B shows an overall shape of a floor of a blind, according to oneembodiment of this invention;

FIG. 14A shows a side view of a 3-hub blind with expansion rods in adeployed position, according to one embodiment of this invention;

FIG. 14B shows an overall shape of a floor of a blind, according to oneembodiment of this invention;

FIG. 14C shows an overall shape of a floor of a blind, according to oneembodiment of this invention;

FIG. 15A shows a side view of a 3-hub blind without expansion rods,according to one embodiment of this invention;

FIG. 15B shows an overall shape of a floor of a blind, according to oneembodiment of this invention;

FIG. 16 shows a side view of a prior art 5-hub blind;

FIG. 17 shows a top view of a prior art 5-hub blind;

FIG. 18 shows a top view of a 3-hub blind without an innovative roofpanel, according to one embodiment of this invention;

FIG. 19 shows a top view of a 3-hub blind with an innovative roof panel,according to one embodiment of this invention;

FIG. 20 shows a top view of a 3-hub roof panel, according to oneembodiment of this invention;

FIG. 21 shows a top view of a 3-hub roof panel, according to oneembodiment of this invention;

FIG. 22 shows a top view of a 3-hub roof panel, according to oneembodiment of this invention;

FIG. 23 shows a skeleton front view of a 3-hub blind, according to oneembodiment of this invention;

FIG. 24 shows an oblique perspective view of a 3-hub blind, as shown inFIG. 23;

FIG. 25 shows a perspective view of a symmetrical position or conditionof support arms or rods, according to one embodiment of this invention;and

FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of an asymmetrical position orcondition of support arms or rods, according to one embodiment of thisinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

FIGS. 1-4 represent a basic prior art hub unit 10 with rods 1-4 attachedto a central hub 5. This attachment to the central hub 5 allows the rods1-4 to be securely attached without a chance or risk to be pulled fromthe hub 5 but also allows for the rods 1-4 to pivot, rotate and foldinto a compact position. Fabric body 6 is made from a flexible materialthat can tolerate or stand up to the weather and maintain its strength.Fabric body 6 is attached to the hub by or using rod pockets 1A-4A. Therods 1-4 slide into the fabric rod pockets 1A-4A that are made from adurable sturdy fabric, known as webbing material, and sewn to the fabricbody 6. The fabric body 6 is also attached to the central hub 5 by abolt and nut 5A with a washer. The end of the bolt on the outside oftenhas a loop hook with a fabric loop 25 sewn to it. This loop is pulledoutward and deploys the hub into a taut position.

The center of the fabric body 6 where the bolt passes through isreinforced with heavy material which often has a heavy rubber texture 7,and this allows the fabric covering to maintain resiliency when thecover is adapting to the forceful deployment mechanism. A central holeor opening is put into the fabric where the bolt 5A passes through thehub 5 and through the hole in the fabric body 6 and the reinforcedrubber texture fabric 7. This holds the fabric body 6 in the center inboth the folded position and the deployed position. When the hub 5 isdeployed, the fabric body 6 is pulled from the directional force of the4 rod pockets 1A-4A equally and the center hole does not create tensionin a single panel or quadrant 11-14 but keeps the fabric body balanced.

Windows are present in desired or opportunistic places along the panels11-14 for viewing and shooting through and are not shown in thedrawings. The body 6 floats freely, thus keeping the tension of thefabric body uniform. It is one object of this invention to provide orsupply an external fbrce outside the hub 5 to create a more concave toppanel 11, as compared to a prior art blind through a concave triangularor triangle shaped roof panel. Prior art blinds do not have the physicalabilities to sustain more concavity, thus more steep angled top panelsin a single quadrant to resist or deter snow and rain. This isequivalent to increasing the slope or pitch of a roof to get snow toquickly fall off the roof.

FIG. 3 shows a hub system 10 in a semi-flexed position before the hubpops inside out, in a convex position, and placing a palm of a hand onthe hub 5 and pushing the hub 5 into the fabric body 6 allow rods 1-4 toevenly separate froth one another. When the rods 1-4 separate and thecentral hub 5 is pushed into the fabric 6 the rods 1-4 are forcefullypushed against the rod pockets 1A-4A, and there is a point of this forcewhen the rods 1-4 begin to contort in shape and the fabric begins tostretch. When the hub 5 is forced past or beyond this point, if all ofthe mechanics are correct, it will allow the hub 5 and the rods 1-4 totransition from being in a loaded concave shape to a loaded convexshape. The external fabric cover now creates outside-in forces againstthe internal frame system.

If the rods 1-4 are longer than allowed to flex they can tear throughthe rod pockets 1A-4A and render the blind useless. If the rods 1-4 areshorter than optimum or the rod pockets 1A-4A are stretched from normaluse or fabric weakening this can produce a relatively weak hub thateasily pops out of the convex position and renders the blind useless.

An alternative way of popping out the blind as described is to pull onthe rope or webbing material 25 that attaches to the central hub hookbolt and the blind can set up from outside the overall structure. FIG. 4demonstrates a fully deployed hub complex 10. Quadrants or panels 11-13demonstrate the fabric body 6 separated into quadrants between the rods1-4. The blind complex 10 has a limited ability to be convex asdetermined by the stretch of the fabric and the maximum distortion ofthe rods 1-4 when the hub transforms from concave to convex, asdemonstrated by distance 20. Referring to FIG. 4, if the blind 10 waslaid flat on the floor edges 33-35 as well as an opposing edge notshown, then it would rest on the floor. Hub 5 would be a distance of 10inches in some applications. With measurement or distance 20, thisdistance is limited to the mechanism of the hub. It is one object ofthis invention to provide a greater depth of the hub complex and thusgreater exterior convexity, allowing for longer life and a strongerstructure of the blind.

Referring to FIG. 5, the folded hub complex demonstrates the attachmentof an accessory rod 30 at the adjoining rod pocket 31. The rod 30 isrigid and can be made from the same material as the hub complex rods andcould optionally be constructed from other materials such as aluminum,steel, PVC plastic and/or any other suitable material and rod 30 couldalso have a telescopic mechanism for adjustable length. In someembodiments of this invention, rod 30 is the same size or shorter thanthe mating rod it borders. In a folded position, the rod pocket 31hinges or acts like a hinge to bend or fold the rod pocket 31, and theaccessory rod 30 selectively attaches via a hook or molded fastener 32to the adjacent rod 1 for storage. In some embodiments of thisinvention, adjoining rod 1 has a fastener for accessory or expansion rodattachment.

Referring to FIGS. 6, 7A, 7B and 7C, FIG. 6 shows a transparent top viewof the 2-hub blind. FIG. 7A shows one embodiment of this inventionwithout the front door panels, which is one object of this invention.Rear panels 107A and 107B are separated by central seam 118. In someembodiments of this invention, central seam 118 is a zipper for rearentry. Rear panels 107A and 107B can be constructed of a single piece offabric. Front door panels 106A and 106B are preferably but notnecessarily separated by a zipper 108A and 108B that starts at thecorner of the joining rod pockets 119, where hubs 120 and 121 aresecured, such as permanently attached. Throughout different embodimentsof this invention, any suitable zipper, fastener, connector and/or othersuitable attachment device or mechanism can be used at any suitablelocation or area to attach and/or connect 2 or more pieces or elementstogether, for example, to attach together or to each other 2 or morepanels or other suitable elements.

In some embodiments of this invention, zipper 108A and 108B attachesquadrants or panels 113 and 114 and doorway panels 106A and 106B whenthe zipper is used. A snap fastener 122 is preferably but notnecessarily attached at or near the rod pockets 101A and 105A and keepsthe two panels connected and in close proximity or near each other andthus allows game viewing or other similar viewing through the topopening between panels 113 and 114 as well as between partially opendoor panels 106A and 106B, if desired. In some embodiments of thisinvention, separation rods 130 and 131 are attached by a mating rodpocket 130A to 102A and 108A to 131A. The mating rod pockets 135 and 136allow for the swing arms 130 and 131 to bend and attach to theircorresponding rods 102 and 108 via or with clips when the blind isfolded for transport.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7A, hubs 120 and 121 lean together in anoverall A-frame configuration. Rear panel 160 is illustrated or shown asbeing divided by central seam 118 between panels 107A and 107B and issewn or otherwise attached or secured to hub complex 120 and 121 at theseam 154 and 155 respectively. Separation rods 130 and 131 are attachedat the rod pockets 130A and 131A and are shown pointing to differentdirections as they fold or hinge freely. In some embodiments of thisinvention, separation rod 131 has a cylindrical receptor 131C which canaccept the end 144 of rod 130 to adjoin rods 130 and 131. In someembodiments of this invention, receptor 131C is of or made of a tube,such as a tube made from plastic and/or any other suitable material, andof great enough diameter to accept the end of rod 144. In someembodiments according to this invention, the connection is a hingedconnection.

Referring to FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C, in some embodiments of this invention,if the user desires to implement the 2 accessory rods then the userwould kneel down in front of the blind at the doorway. Taking hold ofthe right swing arm 131 with one hand and taking hold of left swing arm130 with another hand, the user would align rods across the doorway in ahinged manner. The user would then push the rods apart so the rod end144 of rod 130 would be placed inside the tube or receptor 131C. In someembodiments according to this invention, the mating rods constitute orform a bottom portion of an extra wall panel created by their connectionor implementation. In some embodiments of this invention, the hubs 120and 121 would twist, pivot and rotate to compensate for or respond tothe force on the open corners of the hubs.

Referring to FIGS. 6, 7A, 7B and 7C, in some embodiments of thisinvention, when separation rods or expansion rods or expansion arms areused the effects of elastic deformation create internal forces stored inthe contorted hubs allow them to return to their original shape and pushthe 2 rods 130 and 131 together inside tube or receptor 131C.Receptacle, tube or receptor 131C can be or have an angled shape, suchas at any suitable angled shape, which allows for the separation rods130 and 131 to create more or provide a larger or increased front doorspace by expanding outward past or beyond the blind frame, or can bestraight for a straight line door entry arrangement. In some embodimentsof this invention, rod 130 may be or is adhered, glued and/or otherwiseattached in any suitable manner to receptor 131C or may be attachedselectively in any other suitable manner.

Referring to FIG. 7A, in some embodiments of this invention, rear panel160 is a smaller distance across at or near bottom 140 than a length ofa swing arm length of rod 131 or 130. Measurement for distance 131Edemonstrates the length compared to distance or width 140 which is theback panel length. Door panel 106A and 106B may be used both in a zippedposition or with a single swing arm 130 or 131 and a single door panel.

Referring to FIG. 6, according to some embodiments of this invention,when cylindrical receptacle 131C is attached to a relatively small rodconnector 141 at base of rod pocket 102A, a single door panel 106B canbe used and swing arm 130 can be stowed away with door panel 106Aagainst rod 102, as previously described. The use of rod 131, in someembodiments of this invention, creates or provides an extra wall andthus makes the blind larger than or compared to an arrangement withoutrod 131 but smaller than an arrangement using rod 130 simultaneously.

According to some embodiments of this invention, if the expansion rodlength 131E exceeds a rear panel width 140 then the hubs 120 and 121 areforced to change or distort from their symmetrical position and energywill be stored to maintain a taut external cover. In some embodiments ofthis invention, rear panel 160 is pulled taut by the hub distortion ashubs 120 and 121 are separated forcefully in front by expansion rods andthe rear panel is prevented from allowing the same resting distance orwidth 140. In some embodiments of this invention, when using a singlefront door panel, the opposite door panel is optionally stored byfolding the opposite un-used expansion rod inward and attaching it tothe mating rod. In some embodiments of this invention, using a singleexpansion rod 131 or both expansion rods 130 and 131 allows for anadjustable sized blind and an adjustable sized door, while being forcedopen without staking, according to some embodiments of this invention.For example, this arrangement allows for handicap accessibility, such asentry of a wheelchair.

Referring to FIG. 7A, in some embodiments of this invention, ifaccessory rods 130 and 131 are not used then hubs 120 and 121 can bejoined by hook 146 and loop 147 or any other suitable fasteners and/orconnectors. In some embodiments of this invention, the borders of hubs120 and 121, 148 and 149 are the doorway in this 3-sided symmetricalapplication. To enter the doorway, for example, the user pulls apartthese panels and steps through the doorway. This application wouldrequire staking the blind to maintain its structure like otherconventional arrangements using gravity to maintain its resiliency.

Referring to FIG. 7A, in some embodiments of this invention, if rearpanel 160 is removed then hubs 120 and 121 would freely move apart in aclamshell or pivot type motion when pulled from handles 191A and 191B.In some embodiments of this invention, when the blind complex 120 and121 hinges freely between panels 113 and 114, rear panel width 140prevents hubs 120 and 121 from separating a greater distance than adistance of the rear panel width 140. This is due to or because thestructural integrity of hubs 120 and 121 maintain their preferredresting position. Separation rods 130 and 131 force the front and bottomrod pockets 102A and 108A apart which creates a loading internal forcewhich pushes from inside out against the hubs, according to someembodiments of this invention. The hubs push inside out against theresiliency of the fabric cover and the rods push inside out against thehubs. The distorted hubs then pull outside in or on rear panel 160allowing it to forcefully maintain the structure without a collapse andwithout a structural support across its periphery.

FIGS. 8A and 8B show a side view of a right hub of a 2-hub or 3-hubblind when the loading mechanism is as shown in FIG. 8B and is not asshown in FIG. 8A implemented by use of rods 202A and 202B. FIG. 8A showsor demonstrates minimal or no contortion of rods and a symmetricalshape, where FIG. 8B shows or demonstrates an arrangement withcontortion. The 2 planes are shown or represented by a combination ofrods 210 and 212 representing or forming one plane 230 and rods 211 and213 representing or forming another plane 231. Planes 230A and 231A showor demonstrate a symmetrical shape as expansion rod 202A is at rest orin a rest position. Rod plane 230B and 231B are asymmetrical orapproximately asymmetrical as rod 202B is used and causes contortion. Insome embodiments of this invention, the physical characteristics ofasymmetry are created by the implementation of or using separation rod202B. As the user forces rod 202B acting on the free corner rod 210Bwhich is bordered by 2 free edge panels 240B and 243B at the bottom ofthe hub, in a cross motion, rod 211A and 211B are held stationary to theopposite hub at point 224.

In some embodiments of this invention, corners of the hubs are referredto as being where the rod ends. Referring to FIG. 8B, the free or opencorner 232B is the only corner not held stationary when expansion rod202B acts on the free corner 232B and the mirror image left panel is notshown. The rod corners 224B, 223B and 225B have an attachment tostructures that hold them stationary while rod 202B acts on the freecorner and the effects transfer to the entire structure.

In some embodiments of this invention, rod 213B is held stationary byits rear panel attachment, for example, because accessory rod 202B islonger than the rear panel width at the bottom. As the junction of rods202B and 210B at adjoining corner or rod pockets 232B are forcedoutward, rods 210B and 212B of rod plane 230B maintain a more straightline appearance closer to their original shape without distortion androds 211B and 213B of plane 231B flex into an arc that creates much moreconvexity than a hub mechanism can generate by itself or on its own. Insome embodiments of this invention, a single plane created by rods 211Band 213B are designated or numbered plane 231B which is arced into ahyper-flexed convex position creating a relatively more concave internalstructure. This arrangement creates a stronger asymmetrical structurewith an extra wall and greater floor space.

In some embodiments of this invention, to implement expansion rods toact on the open corners 232A and 232B, of a blind structure at theinferior rod pockets at the floor and doorway results in separation ofthe bordering hubs, transforming the hubs from a general symmetrical toa general asymmetrical shape and convex to more convex throughout theentire structure.

Referring to FIG. 9, the 2-hub skeleton view blind 250 is represented by2 hub complexes 251 and 252. Each of the hubs have 4 rods attached to acentral hub 5A and 5B. Rod pockets not shown in the drawings are used toattach rods 203 and 205 at or near point 216. Rod pockets or an optionalsnap hook, if an optional zipper is used, secure rods 204 and 206together at point 215. In the case or embodiment of no zipper, anadjoining rod pocket would permanently position rods 204 and 206 topoint 215. Points or locations 260, 261, 262 and 263 are secured orotherwise attached to the fabric body with or via rod pockets which arenot shown in the drawings. When expansion rods 130 and 131 are connectedby inserting the rod into connector 264 the force of the distorted hubs251 and 252 keep them together with constant pressure. Rods 130 and 131optionally may connect to one another by or via a hinge connection thatmay be selectively removed or permanently attached.

In some embodiments of this invention, when 2 hubs 251 and 252 aredeployed into their loaded convex external position, the blind assumes aresting shape similar to that shown in FIG. 7A in that or because points260 and 261 represent the relaxed back panel and points 263 and 262mirror image this position in front without expansion rods 130 and 131used. Any attempt to separate hubs 251 and 252 past or beyond distance271 would result in distortion of the shape of the deployed hubs.

In some embodiments of this invention, with implementation of theexpansion rods, as rod 131 pushes rod 207 laterally, and rod 130simultaneously forces rod 201 laterally, the separation of corners 263and 262 opens the front doorway past or beyond its resting distance asmeasured at 271 which is the distance across back panel 229 at thebottom or floor. After rods 130 and 131 are secured or otherwiseattached by or via a connector, in some embodiments of this invention,they rest on the ground and form the bottom of the doorway. As rods 130and 131 force the 2 hubs 251 and 252 apart, rods 201 and 203 on hub 251assume a less convex position and more straight line, while the 2 rodsin the opposite plane 204 and 202 assume more or a greater convexity. Inthis specification and in the claims, this is defined as asymmetry andhyper-convexity and generates greater internal force.

The loading mechanism of the rods 130 and 131 create asymmetry betweenthe 2 axes lines or planes represented by straight line rods 201 and 203and arched rods in the second plane, rods 202 and 204. Hub 252, rods 205and 207 transform to a more straight or less convex position while rods206 and 208 that are in the opposite plane transform to a more convexposition. As rods 130 and 131 force or cause separation of corners 263and 262, rods 208 and 202, as shown in FIG. 9, try to separate to avoidcontortion, and rear panel is pulled tight. In some embodiments of thisinvention, rear panel 229 has a smaller cross distance 271 than doorwayopening 270 and stores the energy of the contorted hubs 251 and 252.This type of structure can, for example, roll in an end over end mannerand still maintain its inside out force and stored energy or otherdynamic energy.

In some embodiments according to this invention, internal, or insideout, forces are generated with swing arm expansion rods at the doorwayalso while anchoring the rear rods 202 and 208 to a dimension shorterthan the front opening. This arrangement creates a 4-sided structurethat maintains internal pressure through 2 hub units and 2 door panelsby generating force from a single side, such as the front. A rear panelcan be removed and points 260 and 261 permanently attached and athree-sided loaded structure can be an alternative embodiment of thisinvention.

In some embodiments of this invention, such as shown in FIG. 9, rods 130and 131 are used separate or together as long as there is separation ofpoints 263 and 262 greater than a distance of back panel bottom 271which represents a distance between points 261 and 260. The distortionof hubs 251 and 253 past or beyond their physical resting tensioncreated by their deployment, generate a loaded internal force as therods resist or fight to maintain their resting position.

According to some embodiments of this invention, an internal forcepushes out against the entire structure including the rear panel 229 andfront door panel or panels. Tightness in the external flexible cover canbe used to prevent fabric flap in the wind which scares game andfurthermore allows the blind to stay self-erected without using stakesat the bottom corners to prevent collapse.

Conventional tents use supports outside the structure of their framesystems. The fabric maintains tightness by pulling fabric from the topout and not the outside in as demonstrated in this invention. The forcecreated by rods 130 and 131 is internal pushing out because hubs 251 and252 are hyper-flexed, past or beyond their flexed or deployed restingposition. Furthermore, unlike this invention, the prior art method ofusing rods or support arms to position hubs to form a box type structuredoes not create “stored energy” to create tension in the fabric bodybeyond the structure for which it is designed.

The prior art portable structures using tubes or rods to support sidewalls and roof structures in a box type manner lack the ability to adaptto multiple size blind applications such as adding or removing a wall,as described in this specification, and changing the size of a doorwaywith using a single or both expansion rods, because the tension of theexternal fabric is limited to the exact size of the support.Furthermore, hubs lack the ability to prevent buckling or folding in thecorners without brackets.

According to some embodiments of this invention, the adaptable sizedescribed with using a single or both expansion rods 130 and 131 whiletension is maintained or remains should be realized, such as in the caseof handicap accessibility. The expanded doorway allows for the entranceof a wheelchair where the smaller doorway using a single rod may be morefavorable or opportunistic when the user requires more front height andless floor space. Floor space, door size, convexity, number of externalwalls and blind panel tensions are all adjustable with the describedsystem according to this invention.

According to some embodiments of this invention, as shown in FIGS. 9 and10, the described term the “stored energy” or loaded system isdemonstrated in or by the blinds ability to pop open under force asdescribed in the following. The transition in shape with using rods 130and 131 is contortion and asymmetry with a lowering of the front heightat point 215 and a maintaining of the rear height at points 216,according to some embodiments of this invention. Referring to locationsor points 263 and 262 as they are spread open to a center height at 215is dropped down making the front of the blind lower with expansion andhigher without expansion.

Referring to the rear panel 229 as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the rearpanel 229 maintains its structure regardless of the external forceswhere the entire perimeter is not acted on by a frame system. In someembodiments of this invention, wind or the weight of the blind rollingend over end allows for the distance 271 to be maintained regardless ofthe lack of a support rod across this structure. This force is generatedby points 261 and 260 being forcefully pulled by the arcing rods 202 and208. This pulling force against the periphery of the back panel createsor provides tightness regardless of having a support bar across thebottom of panel 229. This is not the case with any other mechanism andis one object of this invention. This eliminates the need to stake theblind of this invention, for example, to avoid collapse in the wind.

Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, according to some embodiments of thisinvention, the front view of the 2-hub blind 250 shows the left hub 251and right hub 252 when the door panels 274A on left and 274B on rightare used to create or provide a 5 walled open force loaded structure. Asthe front snap clips 272 and 273 are unlocked the loaded hubs are freeto separate and respond by uncoiling and the hyper convex rods 204 and206 and their mating inferior rods in the same plane 202 and 208immediately and forcefully spring to the straighter line position orsymmetrical position, consistent with the pre-distorted deployed hubshape.

In some embodiments according to this invention, the door panel has acentral zipper 280A and 280B at the center of door panels 274A and 274B.The attachment of door panels at points 275A and 276A on the left and275B and 276B on the right prevent rods 272 and 273 from fully extendingto the “unloaded” symmetrical position as the zipper remains taught andis held down from being relaxed by clips 275A and 275B and thus theentire structure with 5 panels remains intact and taut. In someembodiments of this invention, rods 204 and 206 do not lose their entireamount of stored energy and continue to load the entire structure. Ifhooks 275A and 275B are not intact, rod 204 and 206 would be allowed tofully flex into its semi-relaxed position, such as when the hubs aredeployed and not contorted.

In some embodiments of this invention, the push button implementation ofopening the roof in a spring loaded fashion is a useful application forhunting overhead and maintaining concealment until the last moment orminute. The 5 taut panels, “open top” enclosure is represented by therear panel 229, side panel 280, front left door panel 274A, front rightdoor panel 274B and right side hub panel 281. In some embodiments ofthis invention, it is intended to fully separate the rods 130 and 131and open the entire structure into a 5-sided or 5-panel game shield. Theattachments of the front door panel at 276A and 27613 and 275A and 275Bcan be accomplished with or via a sleeve or multiple fabric sleeves orwith hooks and/or a hook and loop attachment, as well as any othersuitable connectors, fasteners and/or hooks.

In some embodiments of this invention, when rods 130 and 131 are foldedin transport position panels 274A and 274B are folded in a position thatprevents bunching of fabrics. Rods 130 and 131 can be permanentlyattached with or via a hinge connection as well as can be separate. Theycan optionally be selectively removed for transport. Referring to FIGS.10 and 11, central zipper 280A and 280B can be partially zipped tocreate more tension on door panels 274A and 274B thus regulating theamount of tension generated between the 5 identified walls or panels inthe semi-open configuration shown or illustrated in FIG. 10.

According to some embodiments of this invention, the 2-hub blind can beused as a prior art 3 walled symmetrical blind comprising hub 251, backwall 229 and side hub 252, without the implementation of the rods andrequiring staking to maintain stability. In some embodiments of thisinvention, it is then used as a 4-sided asymmetrical blind with a singlerod 131 used and rod 130 and door panel 274A in a transport positionstorage. In some embodiments of this invention, it is used in a 4-sidedlarger door with both expansion rods used. Additionally, the 2-hub blindis used as an enclosed 4-walled pop open blind with the top open.Additionally, it is used as a game shield with the back open and spreadapart thus the name of a “hybrid”, multi-use, multi-sized blind. In someembodiments of this invention, a front door panel may be absent or maybe removed. According to some embodiments of this invention, it ispossible to increase size and change shapes based on huntingapplications. Further, referring to FIGS. 9, 10 and 11, back wall 229may be eliminated.

FIG. 11 numbers the 5 wall panels 274A, 280, 229, 281 and 274B. In someembodiments of this invention, panel 274A is in a slightly foldedposition with the fastener 296 removeable and attaches to an adjacent ora nearby rod 201 in a transport position. In some embodiments of thisinvention, swing aim 131 is in a slightly deployed position allowing ahunter to hide between hub 252 and door panel 274B. Fabric loops orother suitable connectors allow for staking the open game shield to theground along a bottom periphery as shown by locations 296, 297 and 298.In some embodiments of this invention, sleeves are present forattachment to door panels to separation rods 275A and 276A. Expansion orseparation swing arms 130 and 131 are stored or stow away withattachment to adjacent or nearby rods 201 and 205 and door panels 274Aand 274B are stowed away for use as a 3-sided blind.

According to some embodiments of this invention, the door panels, thus asingle wall, uses the 2-hub blind as a 3-side symmetrical blind withrods in a transport position. Snap hooks 299A and 299B hold oppositehubs 251 and 252 together in a closed position and snap hooks 272 and273 hold the top portion together, while the doorway is made at theirjunction at walls 223A and 223B.

Referring to FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, 13A and 13B, according to someembodiments of this invention, the 3-hub blind has hubs 301A, 302A and303A joined and/or otherwise connected to form 3 sidewalls. Two of theborders are permanently attached at a seam 330A and 327A where thefabric bodies are sewn or otherwise attached or connected together. FIG.12B, 12C, 13B, 14B, 14C and 15B each is a top view of the floor shape ofthe corresponding blinds illustrated above, and show or demonstrate theattachment of hubs vertically at seams 330B and 327B where hubs 301A and303A show or demonstrate only a selective attachment to allow opening325 for a doorway. In some embodiments of this invention, sidewall 304Band 304C are provided or created by door panels and the other 3 sidesare provided or created by hubs. In some embodiments of this invention,the door panel can be removed and the bottom of the entry would be theposition of the expansion rods. In some embodiments according to thisinvention, doorway opening 325 on FIG. 13A is accessed by separatinghubs 301A and 303A by pulling panel border 331 and 326 apart andstepping into the blind. If corners 306A and 307B are attached with orvia a snap fastener the hubs flex and allow the user entry or to enter.If no snap fastener is used, point 306A and 307B separate and allow theuser entry or to enter. In some embodiments of this invention, doorwayopening 325 springs back into its resting position if not forced openwith rods 130 or 131 or both rods used together. When the 3-hub blind isused without rods 130 and 131, doorway opening 325 is in a closedposition. When the 3-hub blind is used without rods 130 and 131 they areattached to their adjacent rods as described in the 2-hub embodiments ofthis invention and the front door panel 321 is attached to the borderingpanels with fasteners, such as flexible cords, snaps, zippers and/or anyother suitable connection device or fastener.

In some embodiments of this invention, the physical transformation froma 3-hub, 3-walled symmetrical structure to a 3-hub, 4-walledasymmetrical structure is based on hunting applications, weatherconditions and also floor space requirements. When users desire anupright and symmetrical shape of their hunting structure which isbeneficial for gun hunting they will use the 3-hub, 3-sidewallarrangement or configuration, which in some embodiments of thisinvention is taller and more beneficial in a standing position of theuser. In some embodiments of this invention, the roof is tallerthroughout the center or central area, where the hunter would stand.This roof alignment would likely not resist or deter snow accumulation.

In some embodiments according to this invention, when the user desires astronger and larger structure with the possible addition of more peopleto fit inside the tent, it will require greater floor space, and therods 130 and 131 would be used or implemented to form a fourth wall 303Band 304C. In some embodiments according to this invention, wall 304C isat a greater distance across than or as compared to wall 304B. In someembodiments according to this invention, the combination of rods 130 and131 have a greater combined length than or compared to back wall 302B.In some embodiments of this invention, rod 130 and/or rod 131 each istelescopic and/or adjustable in length.

Although prior art hub style blinds that maintain or have enoughstrength stay open without using stakes require building a box structureincluding 4 sidewalls and a top roof panel, and the sidewalls arerequired to be the same size as the adjoining hubs or else the pieces ofthe box would not fit. In some embodiments according to this invention,it is possible to provide a front door opening 304C of greater widththan opposing rear hub, opposite the doorway, for example, for handicapaccessibility. When increasing the size of the doorway, for example, itcan be up to 100% wider than opposing panel. All of the disclsouredescribing the 2-hub embodiments of this invention apply to the 3-hubembodiments of this invention, particularly as it pertains to door sizeand the physical changes of the two opposing hubs 301A and 303A.

According to some embodiments of this invention, such as shown in FIGS.12A and 13A, points 306A and 307A are or form the unattached or freecorner of the hubs. In some embodiments of this invention, the freecorners are the only portion of the blind where the bottom portion ofthe structure can be separated for entry, and this, for example, iswhere the separation rods 130 and 131 attach with or via mating rodpockets. In some embodiments of this invention, the roof panel 326 hasno structural support rods or hubs and functions to act on top borderingpanels. In some embodiments of this invention, door opening 325, sideseams 330A and 327A are vertical when rods 130 and 131 are not used orimplemented.

According to some embodiments of this invention, when rods 130 and 131are used the 3-hub blind transforms to a 4-sided blind and this resultsin a transformation of all three hubs that is explained in great detail.3-hub blind front and side perspective views without rods 130 and 131used show the vertical position of hub 303A at doorway opening 325 andpanel border 326 as well as seam 327A and 330A. Point 308 drops down inposition when rods 130 and 131 are used or implemented, thus loweringthe height and increasing the roof angle 309. According to someembodiments of this invention, FIGS. 14A and 15A show the correspondingfloor space perspectives as a single expansion rod is used orimplemented on free corners 306A or 307A and a sidewall 304B is createdor provided. When both rods are used, the front wall or doorway islarger, for example about twice larger, than sidewall 304C. In someembodiments of this invention, the hub 303A and 302A has an uprightposition without the implementation of rods 130 and 131 as indicated bylines 313 and 314. In some embodiments of this invention, the roof lineis level or generally level, as indicated by angle 310. In someembodiments of this invention, with implementation of expansion rods,the forward edge 326 slopes forward toward hub 302. If a plumb bob wasdropped from point 308 it would be ahead of or in front of the doorthreshold formed by rods 130 and 131. This allows a user to enter aground blind with the top of the blind not obstructing the user's head.In some embodiments of this invention, the user can step over the rodsor threshold and not be obstructed by the top 308 of the blind which isone object of this invention. This can be, for example, several feet infront of point 308 if extension rods or expansion arms are used, thusincreasing the blind space outside the hubs. In some embodiments of thisinvention, angles 313A and 314A slope forward toward hub 302. In someembodiments of this invention, hub 302 has, assumes and creates aconvexity and greater strength as measured at measurement or distance311. Measurement or distance 312 often lacks convexity past or beyondthe physical limitations of the 4-hubs. In some embodiments of thisinvention, the transformation from a 3-sided 3-hub symmetrical structureto a 4-sided 3-hub asymmetrical structure provides physical stability byacting on a single side and causes increased convexity of all threehubs. In some embodiments of this invention, doorway panel 321 has threesides and three angles with a preferred central zipper but may he alsoon the side or circular. In some embodiments of this invention, thebottom threshold is formed by rods 130 and or 131 and the doorway slopesforward, away from the floor when rods are implemented.

As shown in FIG. 16, the roof hub 401 is in a front view and 401 is in atop view of a 5-hub blind and is made from a structural hub shown hiddenor transparently at 406. In some embodiments of this invention, whensnow accumulates on the roof, the hub collapses and is trapped insidesidewalls 403B, 408B, 409B and 410B which can cause a 5-hub prior artblind to break rods as the snow overpowers the overall structure. Insome embodiments of this invention, the hubs have a maximum amount ofconvexity and they are limited to with the mechanism as shown bymeasurement or distance 407. In some embodiments of this invention, itis not possible to change the tension or convexity of a single hub andthus a single quadrant or panel in a 5-hub structure because the piecesneed to fit integrated or like a puzzle.

According to some embodiments of this invention, such as shown in FIGS.18, 19, 20, 21 and 22, the innovative triangle roof line of thisinvention, with exponentially less fabric or a concave shape, used atone of the three corners provides more slope at the top panels of thebordering sidewalls and thus allowing for a greater angled roof toprevent snow accumulation and to eliminate the top roof hub whilecontinuing to support the overall or entire structure. FIG. 18 is a topview of a 3-hub blind showing a triangle shaped roof panel 450 withoutthe innovative design. Corners 421, 422 and 433 where top rods ofadjoining sidewall meet, is where the roof panel starts and it continuesalong the border of each of the three top panels of the 3 sidewall hubs425, 426 and 427. In some embodiments of this invention, the roof panelis made of a flexible resilient fabric which is sewn to the fabric bodyof the 3 joining side panels. Measurement or distance 407 can be thesame as a measurement of any prior art hub blind because the convexityof the hub is limited by the hub characteristics as well as thelimitations of having to mate to the adjacent hubs to form a boxedstructure as previously described.

FIG. 19 shows that the top panel 423 assumes a shape that allows for thetriangle to arc inward at points 424, 425 and 426. The roof panelsassume a triangle shape with concavity at 1 or more of the 3 sides. Thisinward arc further loads and pulls the top panels of the borderingsidewalls into tension of greater capability to the limited hubmechanism. Measurement or distance 408 shows or demonstrates moreconvexity and thus more strength in the three sidewall hubs by themethod of using a fabric roof panel of this invention that providesincreased tension on the bordering top panel. FIGS. 20, 21 and 22represent roof panel shapes that create more convexity in theirbordering 3 hubs.

According to some embodiments of this invention, FIGS. 23 and 24 showthe 3-hub blind skeleton that represents the same structuralconstruction or make-up of the 2-hub blind shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, andthe physical attributes of the 2 hubs 510 and 512, with expansion rods130 and 131 remaining the same. In some embodiments of this invention,the physical differences are exclusively to the third hub 515, which isopposite of the doorway opening 551. In some embodiments of thisinvention, the doorway is formed at the base of the expansion rods 130and 131 and the door panels connect and operate the same as describedpreviously in the 2-hub embodiments or applications of this invention.

In some embodiments of this invention, such as showing FIGS. 23 and 24,rods 504 and 508 are desired to maintain a more or relatively straightline position in relation to lines 503 and 507 which are forced into aconvex or arced position. In some embodiments of this invention, theflat position serves to push against the top rear hub panel 550, asindicated by the dashed lines, of central hub 515 and provide or createa caving in and more concave top panel. In some embodiments of thisinvention, this forces the center hub 555 into a much more convexposition than it can achieve by the hub mechanism capabilities asmeasured by distance 531. The bottom panel 556, formed between roods 518and 519 assumes a flat position, such as hyper-flexed rods 501 and 505acting with a pulling motion. In some embodiments of this invention, theend result is a convex hub 515 of greater distance at 531 to accommodatea more ball shaped and less flat walled structure. In some embodimentsof this invention, the appearance of hub 515 is that of or correspondsto a bow shape, which is the shape of some archery gear or equipmentused by a hunter. The asymmetrical leaning forward toward hub 515demonstrated in FIG. 24 shows that the increased space and convexity inthe front portion of the blind, according to some embodiments of thisinvention, opposite the doorway are or form larger windows and thusshooting capabilities are most advantageous opportunistic.

According to some embodiments of this invention, when the 3-hub blind575 has no implementation of or use of expansion rods, it assumes anerect and symmetrical 3-sided blind with all sidewalls having integrityand hubs being in their relaxed and deployed shape. Accessory expansionrods and front door panels function the same and have the same optionavailable with 2-hub or 3-hub embodiments according to this invention.

It is then realized that expansion rods acting on the bottom freecorners of a hub enclosure causes a reversible elastic deformation ofthe blind structure generating sustained stored energy, increases thestrength, allows for adjustable space and creates an additionalsidewall. This physical premise is described as Hooke's Law.

According to some embodiments of this invention, a blind structurecomprises a first panel, a second panel, a first hub structure having afirst hub and at least one support arm or rod positioned next to or nearthe first panel, and a second hub structure having a second hub and atleast one support arm or rod positioned next to or near the secondpanel. In some embodiments of this invention, the first hub structure isconnected, secured and/or otherwise attached directly or indirectly tothe second hub structure. In some embodiments of this invention, anexpansion arm or rod is connected, secured and/or otherwise attacheddirectly or indirectly to the first panel and/or the second panel.

According to some embodiments of this invention, a method forconstructing a blind structure comprises or includes forming a first hubstructure with a first hub and at least one first support arm or rodcontacting a first panel, and also forming a second hub structure with asecond hub and at least one second support arm or rod contacting asecond panel. In some embodiments of this invention, the first hubstructure is connected with the second hub structure, for example, withany suitable connector, fastener, attachment and/or any other suitableconnection device. In some embodiments of this invention, an expansionarm or rod attaches, secures and/or otherwise attaches the first paneldirectly to and/or indirectly to the second panel.

According to some embodiments of this invention, the expansion arm hasan adjustable length and the expansion arm can be adjusted in length andthen secured or locked into place or position, such as between the firstpanel and the second panel to form a fixed distance between the firstpanel and the second panel. In some embodiments of this invention, theexpansion arm is a telescopic arm or can otherwise be adjusted in lengthand then locked into a fixed or secured position.

In some embodiments of this invention, positioning, inserting,attaching, securing and/or otherwise fixing the position of theexpansion arm with respect to the first panel and/or the second panelcauses or results in the first hub being forced towards and contactingthe first panel and/or results in the second hub being forced towardsand contacting the second panel. In some embodiments of this invention,positioning the expansion arm in a fixed position with respect to thefirst panel and the second panel causes at least one support arm or rodto transition or transform from a symmetrical condition or position toan asymmetrical condition or position. In some embodiments of thisinvention, when the expansion arm is not in a loaded position orcondition, the support arm or rod is in the symmetrical condition orposition, and when the expansion arm is in a loaded position orcondition, the support arm or rod is in the asymmetrical condition orposition.

As used throughout this specification and in the claims, the term“symmetrical” is intended to relate to a no-load or an unloadedcondition or position of the expansion arm in which the expansion arm isnot connected to the first panel and the second panel and thus does notforce-load the hubs, and the term “asymmetrical” is intended to relateto a with-load or loaded condition or position of the expansion arm inwhich the expansion arm is used and thus connected, attached and/orotherwise secured in place or position and thus removably and securedlyconnected, attached and/or otherwise secured either directly orindirectly to the first panel and the second panel which force-loads thehubs.

FIGS. 25 and 26 are used to better understand the meanings of the terms“symmetrical” and “asymmetrical” as used throughout this specificationand in the claims. FIG. 25 shows support arms or rods 210A, 211A, 212Aand 213A in a symmetrical condition or position, which is a no-load orunloaded condition or position of the support arms or rods, and in whichthe support arms or rods have similar arcs, similar chord lengths andsimilar distances 234, which is within planes 230A and 231A. FIG. 25shows the unloaded or no-load position or condition in which theexpansion arm of this invention is not used. FIG. 25 represents howconventional blind structures are configured or formed, particularlywithout the use of an expansion arm according to this invention.

FIG. 26 shows support arms or rods 210A, 211A, 212A and 213A in anasymmetrical condition or position, which is a with-load or loadedcondition or position of the support arms or rods, and in which thesupport arms or rods do not have similar arcs, do not have similar chordlengths and do not have similar distances 235 and 236, which is withinplanes 230A and 231A. FIG. 26 shows the loaded or with-load position orcondition in which the expansion arm of this invention is used. When theexpansion arm of this invention is used, the support arms have anasymmetrical condition or position, which in some embodiments of thisinvention causes the hub to be force-loaded so that the hub and thesupport aims contact the panels and make the panels taut or put thepanels into a taut or relatively tight condition.

While in the foregoing detailed description this invention has beendescribed in relation to certain preferred embodiments thereof, and manydetails have been set forth for purposes of illustration, it will beapparent to those skilled in the art that this invention is susceptibleto additional embodiments and that certain of the details describedherein can be varied considerably without departing from the basicprinciples of this invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A blind structure, comprising: a first panel, afirst hub structure having a first hub and at least one first supportarm near the first panel, a second panel, a second hub structure havinga second hub and at least one second arm near the second panel, thefirst hub structure connected to the second hub structure, and anexpansion arm attaching the first hub structure to the second hubstructure and forcing the first hub to contact the first panel andforcing the second hub to contact the second panel.
 2. The blindstructure according to claim 1, wherein the expansion arm has anadjustable length and is attachable to the first panel and the secondpanel.
 3. The blind structure according to claim 1, wherein the firsthub is forced toward and contacts a first inside surface of the firstpanel and the second hub is forced toward and contacts a second insidesurface of the second panel.
 4. The blind structure according to claim1, further comprising a rear panel connected to the first panel and thesecond panel.
 5. The blind structure according to claim 1, furthercomprising a rod pocket attached to the first panel and the at least onefirst arm detachably mounted within the rod pocket.
 6. The blindstructure according to claim 1, wherein positioning the expansion armtransforms the first panel and the second panel into a force-loaded tautcondition.
 7. The blind structure according to claim 1, furthercomprising the first hub structure having four first support arms eachconnected to the first hub and the second hub structure having foursecond support arms each connected to the second hub.
 8. The blindstructure according to claim 1, wherein the expansion arm is adjustableand moveable to transition the at least one first support arm and the atleast one second support arm each from a symmetrical condition to anasymmetrical condition.
 9. The blind structure according to claim 1,wherein the expansion arm loads a first force in the first hub andmaintains the first panel taut and loads a second force in the secondhub and maintains the second panel taut.
 10. A blind structure,comprising: a first hub structure having a first hub and at least onefirst support arm near a first panel, a second hub structure having asecond hub and at least one second support arm near a second panel, andan expansion arm releasably attaching the first hub structure to thesecond hub structure and forcing the first hub to contact the firstpanel and forcing the second hub to contact the second panel.
 11. Theblind structure according to claim 10, wherein the expansion arm has anadjustable length.
 12. The blind structure according to claim 10,further comprising a rear panel connected to the first panel and thesecond panel.
 13. The blind structure according to claim 10, furthercomprising a rod pocket attached to the first panel and the at least onefirst arm detachably mounted within the rod pocket.
 14. The blindstructure according to claim 10, wherein the expansion arm loads a firstforce in the first hub and maintains the first panel taut and loads asecond force in the second hub and maintains the second panel taut. 15.A blind structure, comprising: a first hub, at least one first supportarm near a first panel, a second hub, at least one second support armnear a second panel, and an expansion arm detachably securing the firsthub structure to the second hub structure and forcing the first hub tocontact the first panel and forcing the second hub to contact the secondpanel.
 16. The blind structure according to claim 15, wherein theexpansion arm has an adjustable length.
 17. The blind structureaccording to claim 15, further comprising a rear panel connected to thefirst panel and the second panel.
 18. The blind structure according toclaim 15, further comprising a rod pocket attached to the first paneland the at least one first arm detachably mounted within the rod pocket.19. The blind structure according to claim 15, wherein the expansion armloads a first force in the first hub and maintains the first panel tautand loads a second force in the second hub and maintains the secondpanel taut.
 20. The blind structure according to claim 15, furthercomprising the blind structure having four of the first support armseach connected to the first hub and four of the second support arms eachconnected to the second hub.